Manager, Data Analytics and Automation – Internal Audit

As the global leader in high-speed connectivity, Ciena is committed to a people-first approach. Our teams enjoy a culture focused on prioritizing a flexible work environment that empowers individual growth, well-being, and belonging. We’re a technology company that leads with our humanity—driving our business priorities alongside meaningful social, community, and societal impact.

How You Will Contribute:

As Manager, Data Analytics and Automation – Internal Audit, you will lead the data analytics and automation function within the Internal Audit department at Ciena. You will be responsible for managing a team of data analysts and driving the strategic use of data to enhance audit effectiveness, risk assessment, and business process improvement. Additionally, you will partner closely with audit leadership and business stakeholders to embed advanced analytics, automation, artificial intelligence, continuous auditing and monitoring, and digital tools into all phases of the audit lifecycle, supporting the company’s mission of operational excellence and continuous innovation.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of data analysts, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning, specifically building Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) capabilities within the team.
• Develop and champion the strategic roadmap for integrating AI/ML into internal audit processes, including the identification of high-impact use cases for data analytics, continuous auditing and risk assessment.
• Oversee the design and execution of data analytics strategies, incorporating AI/ML techniques and continuous auditing approaches, that support audit planning, execution, and reporting.
• Collaborate with the internal audit team and business leaders to identify opportunities for data-driven insights, automation, and process improvements.
• Ensure the integrity, quality, and security of data used in audit analytics, maintaining compliance with company policies and regulatory requirements.
• Translate complex AI/ML findings, continuous auditing outputs, and data analytics observations into actionable insights and clear recommendations for audit leadership and business stakeholders, fostering data-driven decision-making
• Develop and maintain advanced dashboards, visualizations, and analytical models to communicate key findings and trends to stakeholders at all levels.
• Drive the adoption of emerging technologies (AI/ML, automation) within the audit function, recommending and implementing innovative solutions.
• Manage multiple concurrent projects, allocating resources and setting priorities to deliver high-impact results on time.
• Stay current with industry trends, regulatory changes, and best practices in data analytics, automation, internal audit, risk management, and the application of AI in these fields.
• Support the integration of data analytics, automation, and AI into the audit methodology, ensuring each are embedded in risk assessment, control testing, and reporting.
• Build strong relationships with IT, Finance, and other business partners to facilitate access to data and alignment on analytics initiatives.

The Must Haves:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Data Science, Computer Science, Information Systems, Business Analytics, or a related field. Master’s degree preferred.
• Experience: 7+ years of progressive experience in data analytics and automation, with at least 2 years in a leadership or managerial role, preferably within internal audit, risk management, or a high-tech environment.
• Advanced proficiency with data analytics tools, including SQL (Snowflake experience preferred), Python, R, Alteryx, or similar tools, and data visualization platforms (e.g., Power BI, Tableau, Qlik). Experience extracting and transforming data from large data lakes to derive actionable insights using advanced analytical techniques is essential.
• Strong understanding of ERP systems (Oracle, SAP), cloud platforms, and business process data flows.
• Demonstrated ability to lead teams, manage complex projects, and deliver data-driven insights that influence business decisions.
• In-depth knowledge of internal controls, audit methodologies, and risk management frameworks is a strong asset.
• Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and problem-solving skills.
• High ethical standards, attention to detail, and commitment to confidentiality and data security.

Assets:

• Experience working in a global, high-tech, or rapidly evolving business environment.
• Familiarity with regulatory requirements (SOX, GDPR, CCPA) and audit standards.
• Innovative mindset and passion for driving digital transformation within the audit function.
• Proven experience in designing and implementing automation and AI/ML solutions or continuous auditing programs within an internal audit, risk management, or compliance function

This role is ideal for a dynamic leader who combines technical expertise with strategic vision, ready to elevate the impact of data analytics, AI, and automation in internal audit at a leading technology company

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At Ciena, we are committed to building and fostering an environment in which our employees feel respected, valued, and heard.  Ciena values the diversity of its workforce and respects its employees as individuals. We do not tolerate any form of discrimination.

Ciena is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status.

If contacted in relation to a job opportunity, please advise Ciena of any accommodation measures you may require.